Oscar Sobrevilla Mondragon
Oscar Sobrevilla Mondragon is a senior at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Pure Mathematics. His academic path reflects a deep interest in rigorous theoretical inquiry paired with a strong desire to use that knowledge in real-world, impactful ways. At UTRGV, Oscar conducts research with Dr. Oleg Musin on problems related to mass partitions and geometric applications of machine learning. He recently proved a mathematical conjecture he developed independently and is now preparing it for publication. In addition to his research, Oscar works as a part-time tutor in the UTRGV Department of Mathematics, teaching undergraduate students in courses ranging from Pre-Calculus to Real Analysis. He also serves as Member-at-Large for the UTRGV Mathematical Society, where he helps organize academic events and promote student engagement in mathematics.
Oscar applied to the SUMR program with the goal of translating his theoretical background into policy-relevant research and exploring the field of health economics. He is especially interested in how economic incentives shape the delivery of care and decision-making in the healthcare system. Through SUMR, Oscar is working full-time under the mentorship of Dr. Claudio Lucarelli at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. His research includes a series of literature reviews and conceptual development for projects examining the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on Medicare incentives and technology adoption, the influence of gain sharing programs on healthcare utilization, pricing, and physician behavior, and the long-term effects of early career decision-making among physicians.
Oscar aspires to pursue a PhD in economics, where he hopes to focus on the intersection of healthcare markets, physician behavior, and the economic structures that shape access to care. Through his participation in SUMR, he is building the foundation for a future as a researcher dedicated to improving health policy through the lens of economic analysis.